Tabatha Ricci approaches her co-main event clash against Virna Jandiroba at UFC Vegas 115 as a pivotal moment that could launch her into contention for Mackenzie Dern’s strawweight title. For Ricci, this Saturday’s three-round bout at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas isn’t just another fight; it’s a crucial step towards challenging the division’s elite.
The Formidable Challenge: Virna Jandiroba’s Credentials
Jandiroba, a formidable presence at 115 pounds, holds a strong position in the rankings, often hovering around the No. 3 spot. She recently demonstrated her championship-level capabilities by going five tough rounds with Mackenzie Dern for the title at UFC 321, despite ultimately losing a decision. With a professional record boasting over twenty wins, few defeats, and an impressive tally of submissions earned during her time in Invicta FC and the UFC, Jandiroba represents a significant challenge.
Ricci’s Ascent: A Rising Contender’s Journey
For Ricci, this matchup is an opportunity to redefine how matchmakers perceive her. Entering 2026 on the cusp of the top 10, Ricci’s UFC tenure includes notable victories over fighters like Jessica Penne, Polyana Viana, Gillian Robertson, and Angela Hill. While she’s also faced tough lessons against names such as Loopy Godinez and Yan Xiaonan, her overall MMA record shows a strong track record, primarily through decision wins, complemented by some submissions and one striking stoppage.
“Biggest Fight of My Career”: Ricci’s Unwavering Mindset
Ricci acknowledges the heightened stakes of this weekend’s encounter but maintains her consistent philosophy: every fight is the biggest of her career. This mindset helps her stay focused and avoids getting sidetracked by ranking discussions.
“I feel every fight is the biggest fight of my career so far. This one has some stakes attached to it though, right? It’s a little crowded at the top of the division, so if I go out there and get a performance, I’m right in that title discussion. That’s what I want. I’m going to go as vicious as I can, try and get my best performance of the night, and get my challenge for the belt.”
Grappling’s Place: Ricci Defends Her Roots
The discourse surrounding this fight in Las Vegas has touched upon the role of grappling in modern MMA, particularly in light of recent debates. Jandiroba, a highly accomplished jiu-jitsu practitioner with numerous submission victories, often utilizing rear-naked chokes and armbars, embodies the grappling-first approach within the strawweight division.
Ricci was quick to dismiss any notion that she undervalues grappling in the sport. “I never say anything bad about jiu-jitsu. I come from grappling, that’s my background in judo and jiu-jitsu,” she affirmed. “I love the grappling and I really support the jiu-jitsu in the division. I don’t know where this came from, but I don’t have anything bad to say about jiu-jitsu or grappling. If you’re a jiu-jitsu player and the fight goes to the ground, it’s very exciting because you know what’s happening.”
Chasing the Champion: Mackenzie Dern and the Contender Queue
With Mackenzie Dern holding the strawweight belt, a line of eager contenders, including both Jandiroba and Ricci, is forming. While Jandiroba has already tested Dern in a championship bout, Ricci now views a victory this weekend as her definitive entry into those elite title discussions.
“Any time, whatever takes me closer to my goals, I’ll be willing to do it. With a victory here this weekend I’d love a title shot, like any fighter, but if that’s not in the cards and it’s a rematch with Yan Xiaonan, Loopy Godinez, or maybe even a fight against Jillian Robertson, I’m open to it if it gets me nearer to the belt.”
A win on Saturday would undoubtedly keep Ricci firmly in the title hunt, regardless of how Dern, Weili, and the other top-ranked fighters sort out their immediate future.
